Northern Reflections on Health

Unimpressed by the press

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unimpressed by the mediaThe 24-hour news cycle makes it tough to get away from the multi-media frenzy that feeds non-stop it seems, on political pundits’ opinions or the latest global health hazard. And confusion can abound now between what is true and not – adding new lexicon such as “alternative facts”!

Add to that turmoil our current cloudy and cold days; and, mental health experts warn that all this can have significant effects on our mental and physical well-being.

While I’ve read helpful tips from mental health advocates that include taking breaks from the barrage of news to look for good headlines, I’ve found it important to reach out and help others who may feel vulnerable in the midst of this tumult.

Christian reformer Mary Baker Eddy recognized how the media of the day could influence our health. Continue Reading

Recapture the joy of the Season

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recapture the joy of the SeasonHas the holiday hustle and bustle got you a little frazzled?

Many of us are impacted by extra demands on time, energy and finances. The stress of a busy holiday schedule ­ from shopping to seasonal festivities – can wear off the joy of the season even for a usually well-balanced person. At times it may not feel like ‘Christmas’, so much as ‘Stress­mas’!

So, how can we maintain – or recapture ­ the joy of this special season? After all, the idea was originally to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the view of our origin as God’s beloved child (Gen. 1:26,27) that his life represented. It wasn’t about checking things off the ‘to do’ list or finding the perfect gift.Continue Reading

Unlimited health benefits

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unlimited health benefitsWorkplace wellness movements are gaining momentum. Employers are increasingly recognizing that mental health is an essential part of our overall well-being.

Recently, Starbucks Canada made what it sees as a smart business investment in their employees’ mental health. The coffee chain has significantly raised its employee benefit for mental health treatment to one of the largest allowances offered in the country.

Their reasoning behind this investment is grounded in the fact that Starbucks is staffed mainly by the millennial generation – coined as “Generation Stress” by research.

According to psychotherapist and author, Linda Esposito, with the age of around-the-clock access to news and social media, the mental health of millennials “is in a precarious state”. What is behind the high rates of depression and anxiety, she asks? The stress of academic overachieving, information overload and helicopter parenting are a few keys. Regardless of the reasons, Esposito focuses on building mental health strategies for the millennial for today and beyond.

It’s important to keep our thinking – and our options – open when it comes to choices for mental health care. The medical landscape is ever shifting. Many people sometimes find it difficult to decipher the changing signals and are looking for a more reliable game plan for their health.Continue Reading

The art and science of thankfulness

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This is a guest post by my colleague, Monica Karal.

The art and science of thankfulnessStopping momentarily to recognize the good in our lives, and to quietly give thanks, is like watching a sunrise illuminate the day. It sheds light on the good things so we can enjoy and nurture them, and helps dispel the darkness or dissatisfaction with what we supposedly lack.

In a culture where ads try to convince us we always need more, and some sectors of society purportedly have an entitlement mentality, it’s worthwhile to step back and reflect on who we are, what we have, and what really satisfies.Continue Reading